Sport

RUGBY: Backhouse receives international call-up

First published
in Sport
by Ed Mezzetti, Sports reporter specialising in Rugby, Cricket and Athletics. Call me on 01865 425456

BANBURY lock Doug Backhouse has been selected for the England Under 18 squad.

The promising teenager should make his debut during April’s tri-nations tournament in France.

Backhouse was picked after impressing at England’s development weekend in Loughborough, which clubmate Alex Cox also attended.

The pair are at the forefront of Banbury’s strong colts squad, who had 11 players make the Oxfordshire ranks this season.

Banbury colts lead coach Dave Walkden said: “Doug has battled against the odds to get where he has and, through nothing, but his own endeavours and the support of his team mates, he has developed into a first class player.

“He did not attend a private school, was overlooked time and again by the various professional club academies, and yet has still managed to get to the very top.”

With typical modesty, Backhouse announced his news via Twitter with the message: “Still can’t believe I’ve been selected to represent England U18’s.”